Genetic Technologist

Job summary

The West Midlands Regional Genetics Laboratory in Birmingham is recruiting to a number of graduate level vacancies. The posts that are currently available are for fixed term (18 months) Genetic Technologists (AfC band 5), however we are also advertising pre-emptively for future positions that may become department is located at the Birmingham Women's Hospital and is the lead laboratory in the Central and South Genomic Laboratory Hub, the largest of the seven national GLHs, performing more than80,000 tests per annum. The department performs a wide range of genomic testing using a large variety of testing methodologies to fulfil the requirements of the National Genomic Test Directory.

We are looking for highly motivated individuals who are committed to a career in laboratory diagnostic genetics. Applicants should have good interpersonal skills and be capable of working under pressureto tight deadlines. They should be team players, looking to expand their knowledge and experience in diagnostic genetics, have a strong interest in driving and improving the quality of diagnostic servicesand be able to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Understanding of genomic technology and some experience in the interpretation of scientific data are desirable.

We invite applications from individuals who are registered as a Genetic Technologist with the Academyfor Healthcare Science (AHCS) or equivalent. However, given the broad range of opportunities that we have available we also invite applications from individuals with appropriate qualifications and experience who are willing to work towards registration.

Main duties of the job

Reporting directly to Senior Genetic Technologists, the successful candidates will join a specified sub-section(s) of the laboratory, as appropriate to their expertise and experience, with previous practical laboratory experience being an essential requirement to this role.

Genetic Technologists are to undertake technical and analytical duties within a specified sub-section(s) of the laboratory. The post holder will perform standard highly accurate technical processes associated with testing for genetic disorders and carry out the analysis of data relating to this genomic testing.

They will be required to communicate complex technical, scientific and often sensitive information to colleagues within their department in both verbal and written role will also include training and supervision of Healthcare Science Assistants as well as coaching in specific techniques for all laboratory staff grades. Genetic technologists are also required to observe and maintain a high standard of laboratory health, safety and risk procedures; and is required to work to departmental Standard Operating Procedures, and current professional standards.

About us

Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust is the first of its type in the UK. Our Trust was formed in February 2017 to drive forward our commitment to provide the highest quality, world-class physical and mental health care for our women, children and families. Uniting our hospitals means more seamless care; more investment to make greater advances in our specialist treatment and world-leading neo-natal and fetal work. Importantly, it also gives us a greater voice in shaping the future of family-centred care.

Birmingham Children's Hospital is a UK leading specialist paediatric centre with an international reputation in several areas.

Birmingham Women's Hospital is one of two dedicated women's hospitals in the UK, with the busiest single site maternity unit, delivering more than 8,200 babies a year offering a full range of gynaecological, maternity and neonatal care.

Forward Thinking Birmingham (FTB) Mental Health Services are a unique, innovative community and inpatient mental health partnership. Alongside partners FTB offers care pathways of mental health assessment and treatment for young people aged 0-25 years old.

Our Trust is committed to creating the best place to work. We believe in promoting and enhancing inclusion, diversity and equality and encourage applications from all areas of the community, who meet the criteria for the role, regardless of age, gender identity, disability, race, religion or sexual orientation.

Job description

Job responsibilities

Please refer to the attached job description and person specification to view the full details for this opportunity at Birmingham Womens and Childrens NHS Foundation Trust.

When completing your application, please ensure you have evidenced how you meet the job description and person specification to include transferable experience, qualifications, skills along with professional registration details (if applicable).

Occasionally we receive a large number of applications for our roles and when that happens we sometimes bring the closing date forward, so please apply promptly to avoid disappointment.

Person Specification

Personal Skills/Abilities and Attributes

Essential

Good written and verbal communication skills

Desirable

Leadership skills Supervisory skills Training/coaching skills

Qualifications

Essential

BSc. in a Biological Science, or equivalent experience Commitment to work towards registration with the appropriate body within an agreed reasonable time following appointment Active participation in CPD

Desirable

Registration with the Academy for Healthcare Science or other appropriate Healthcare Science registration body ACC/CMGS Certificate Competence in Genetic Technology; or equivalent training or MSc or PhD

Knowledge & Experience

Essential

Experience in performing genetic laboratory techniques Sound knowledge of quality issues Good understanding of Health & Safety Ability to work with a team but also on own with minimum supervision Excellent technical and analytical skills Good IT skills

Desirable

Significant experience in a genetic diagnostic laboratory at career framework level 5, or equivalent Experience of report writing Experience of cytogenetic or molecular analysis Knowledge of the principles of human diagnostic genetic testing

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